My child arrived just the other dayHe came to the world in the usual wayBut there were planes to catch and bills to payHe learned to walk while I was awayAnd he was talkin' 'fore I knew it, and as he grewHe'd say "I'm gonna be like you dadYou know I'm gonna be like you"

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoonLittle boy blue and the man on the moonWhen you comin' home sonI don't know when, we'll get together thenYou know we'll have a good time then

Well my son turned ten just the other dayHe said, "Thanks for the ball, Dad, come on let's playCan you teach me to throw", I said "Not todayI got a lot to do", he said, "That's ok"And he walked away and smiled and he said ya know"I'm gonna be like him, yeahYou know I'm gonna be like him"

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoonLittle boy blue and the man on the moonWhen you comin' home son?I don't know when, we'll get together thenYou know we'll have a good time then

Well, he came from college just the other daySo much like a man I just had to say"I'm proud of you, can you sit for a while?"He shook his head and said with a smile"What I'd really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keysSee you later, can I have them please?"

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoonLittle boy blue and the man on the moonWhen you comin' home son?I don't know when, but we'll get together thenYou know we'll have a good time then

I've long since retired, my son's moved awayI called him up just the other day"I'd like to see you if you don't mind"He said, "I'd love to, Dad, if I can find the timeYou see my new job's a hassle and the kids have the fluBut it's sure nice talking to you, DadIt's been sure nice talking to you"

And as I hung up the phone it occurred to meHe'd grown up just like meMy boy was just like me

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoonLittle boy blue and the man on the moonWhen you comin' home son?I don't know when, we'll get together thenWe're gonna have a good time then :|| (repeat)